Libraries announce schedule changes, extended service hours
Santa Cruz Public Libraries (SCPL) has announced system schedule changes and extended hours at selected branches starting on Sunday, Feb. 1.
Several branches within the system will have extended hours. Capitola and Felton branch libraries will join the Downtown Branch Library in offering library services to the public on Sundays from 1-5pm.
In addition, Aptos and Scotts Valley branch libraries will have an extended schedule Monday through Thursday from 10am-7pm, Friday from 11am-5pm and Saturday from 10am-5pm. All 10 SCPL branches will open at 11am every Friday to allow for staff participation in local and systemwide meetings.
For more information on branch hours and other services, visit santacruzpl.org.
Tyler Ramsey and Carl Broemel to perform at Felton Music Hall
Singer-songwriter-guitarists Tyler Ramsey and Carl Broemel will perform at Felton Music Hall on Monday, Feb. 2, as part of their nationwide tour supporting their recently released album, Celestun, which came out Jan. 15 on Duo Quest Records via Tone Tree Music.
The duo’s album highlights their contrasting guitar styles, blending Broemel’s classically trained virtuosity with Ramsey’s nimble fingerpicking in a predominantly instrumental collection. Tracks such as “Elizabeth Brown,” “Sail Away,” “Celestun,” “Nevermind” and the latest, “In the Willows,” showcase the pair’s atmospheric sound.
Although recorded with modern techniques, Celestun evokes the feel of a lost acoustic classic, drawing comparisons to artists like Clarence White, John Fahey, Michael Hedges, Leo Kottke, Bert Jansch and John Renbourn.
Tickets and more information are available at feltonmusichall.com/events.
Martinez hosts District 5 town hall on community priorities
Santa Cruz County Supervisor Monica Martinez will host a District 5 town hall on Tuesday, Feb. 3, to hear residents’ priorities and share updates on the County’s strategic plan.
The meeting, from 6-7:30pm at Felton Community Hall, 6191 Highway 9, will cover issues raised by local residents, including storm response, road conditions, wildfire preparedness, pedestrian safety and access to County services.
The County’s strategic plan guides future projects and investments, and officials say public input is essential to ensure community priorities are reflected. Residents will have the chance to share ideas, ask questions and learn about programs and resources available in San Lorenzo Valley, Scotts Valley and surrounding areas.
For more information, email fi************@***************ca.gov or visit sccvision.us.
METRO offers free fares Feb. 4 for Transit Equity Day
Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District will offer free bus service countywide on Wednesday, Feb. 4, in recognition of Transit Equity Day, a national observance that affirms public transit as a civil right and essential public good.
Transit Equity Day is held annually on Feb. 4 to honor the birthday of civil rights icon Rosa Parks and to highlight the role of equitable, accessible transportation in expanding opportunity. METRO will join transit agencies nationwide in marking the day.
All METRO services, including local routes, the Highway 17 Express and ParaCruz, will be free to riders throughout the day. The free-fare initiative is intended to reduce transportation barriers, encourage residents to try transit and spotlight METRO’s role in connecting people to jobs, education, healthcare and community services.
Route information, real-time updates and trip planning tools are available through the Transit app and at scmetro.org.
